Henkerhaus Nuremberg
at home with the executioner
On the west end of Trödelmarkt island, the Henkerhaus (where the executioner of Nuremberg once lived) stands in an impressive location – directly over the water. As early as 1320 to 1325, the tower was built to defend the Pegnitz River. As the city wall was expanded, the tower was no longer used for its original purpose. In the middle of the 15th century, it became the official residence of the executioner of the city.
The punishments which an executioner performed around 1600 seem very cruel to us today. Did you know that even back in those days, the job of executioner was a controversial one, that brought many consequences with it? He was considered to be a “dishonorable person” and could therefore have no contact with the honorable. The profession effected the entire family: His sons were not permitted to take up an honorable occupation and the daughters could only marry dishonorable men.
Our tip: Take a look at the former house of the executioner and learn more about his story.
Categories at Augustinerhof
The Hexenhäusle
